Pat Hessenauer has resigned as head coach at Milwaukee School of Engineering, athletic director Dan Harris confirmed Thursday, saying that the school would immediately begin a search for a full-time coach to replace him.
“We are very committed to ice hockey.” said Harris. “We’re going from a part-time coach to a full-time coach in the athletic department. And we’re increasing the budget significantly for a sport that has a budget that’s four or five times larger than any other sport we have.”
In his resignation letter, Hessenauer contested Harris’ view of things.
“Due to a lack of commitment and support from the school and those involved, my efforts would be better spent elsewhere,” said Hessenauer. “The five years that I have spent coaching the MSOE program has been an enjoyable and rewarding experience. I strongly feel the program has grown tremendously under my leadership and I wish them the best of luck in the future.”
Hessenauer coached MSOE for five seasons, compiling a 51-71-7 record. The Raiders were 3-21-1 this past season after setting a school record with 13 victories in 1999-2000.
He also served as secretary, treasurer and public relations director of the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association.
Hessenauer played at Wisconsin-Whitewater, He began coaching youth hockey in his hometown of Janesville, Wis., and eventually moved into the high school ranks.
At MSOE, he twice earned MCHA coach of the year honors. He is finishing his communications degree at Wisconsin-Milwaukee with plans to pursue a masters in Sports Administration. His other duties at MSOE include director of the Red & White Booster Club and organizing fundraising programs for the athletic programs.
Attempts to reach Hessenauer for comment were unsuccessful.
